Colin McDonald
Staff Reporter
“I’ve had students–rich, poor, homeless, suicidal, [going through] all sorts of different life challenges, and it’s been cool to see how kids that come from backgrounds that are very challenging can still rise above and accomplish cool things…[I]t’s inspiring to see that.”
Mr. Kwant is the Film and TV teacher and PSBN (Peoria Student Broadcasting Network) instructor at Ironwood. He is an Ironwood alumni, and graduated from Arizona State University in 2002. He has been teaching for 20 years, 9 of them being here at Ironwood High School.
Though he comes from a family of teachers, he never imagined he would become one. “It was the one thing I said I’d never do–and here I am.” However, one particular interest he has always had is film. Kwant has maintained his interest in film since he went to Desert Valley Elementary School, and got his start helping broadcast the morning announcements. Then he came to Ironwood and took photography, yearbook and video productions classes. After he graduated, Kwant started a business primarily focusing on photography–but also doing videography work.
He began his teaching career at an elementary school, working his way up to junior high. He then found a job opening at high school, combining all the things he loved–video, audio, photography, and teaching. He took the job and ended up back in a familiar place–Ironwood.
When asked what he most enjoys about his job, he stated that it is not the same thing every day. Explaining further, “...even though I have an advanced class that has some of the same kids in it, every semester’s a bit different. Instead of teaching the same thing over and over again the exact same way, I like that there’s some artistic license, some space to do things in a different way and try different things out. Because I don’t think I could do the same things over and over again.”
“I think it’s cool when students come back or email me or get in contact with me and tell me what they’re doing with their life…Each one of those is definitely a huge accomplishment to have played some kind of part in that” Kwant answered when asked about what he considers his biggest achievement throughout his career.
Kwant’s advice for those thinking of pursuing a teaching career is to make sure you research where you want to teach. Certain locations have more challenges pay and support wise. “If you are doing it for the paycheck, you’re doing the wrong thing–that’s not why we do this.”
“When it comes to video and TV, you just have to start shooting things” Kwant answers when asked about advice for those pursuing a job in the film and TV industry. He states that the best thing to do for a job in this field is to develop your portfolio. Challenge yourself, educate yourself. Nowadays, one can learn new skills from free online videos and tutorials. Start a lower-level job to get your foot in the door. Get your name recognized and keep going from there. “Because when people see [that] you’re a consistent worker and you got a portfolio behind you and you’re willing to learn then that’s how you really get into that industry and make a start of it.” Image Credit: Eagle's Eye
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